[jayd10033]

#33889

Hello Dr.Corenman,

Surgery 3/17. L3-4 right extra-foraminal discectomy. I’ve described my surgery and MRI results in a previous thread. Over the course of the 2.5 since, in addition to the buttock pain (I’m on gabapentin now), I’ve also developed low back pain that feels like a muscle pull or “strain” – but which I’ve since learned as part of this process could be disc/nerve referred pain. 5 months ago this is something I would have gotten a massage for or taken NSAIDs and hoped it went away.

For example, my low back hurts when I get up, or try to lower myself in to a chair. This was NOT a problem during the first week. I’m afraid I B/L/T’d in some way that has somehow aggravated my healing body. I have tried to be good, but taking care of a kid and healing aren’t always complimentary, even with a spouse’s help.

My surgeon is telling me this is all normal, and to continue restrictions for 2-4 more weeks and then we can discuss imaging etc. I’d like to just know now if I’ve re-herniated, why back pain that wasn’t present 1 week post-op, now is.

Am I worrying too much?

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#33890

If you are only 2 weeks out from your microdisectomy and you don’t have more severe pain than before surgery, give this some time before you become distressed. You might ask for an oral steroid to reduce symptoms. I assume you have no fevers, chills or malaise/lethargy.

Dr. Corenman

[jayd10033]

#33892

Thank you. I did get a course of oral steroids- did not improve.

I will be more patient :)

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#33893

Please keep the forum apprised of your progress.

Dr. Corenman

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